Pune Police Arrest Accused in Swargate Shivshahi Bus Rape Case After Intensive Manhunt
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 28th February 2025: Pune Police have arrested 26-year-old Dattatray Gade, the accused in the rape of a young woman inside a Shivshahi bus at Swargate ST bus stand. The incident, which occurred around 5:30 am on Tuesday, sparked widespread outrage and protests, leading to a massive police operation involving 13 teams.
Following the crime, Pune Police launched a large-scale manhunt, deploying technical surveillance, questioning individuals in contact with the accused, and offering a ₹1 lakh reward for information leading to his capture. The search extended to multiple locations, including Gade’s native village, Gunat in Shirur taluka, about 68 km from Pune, where drones and dog squads were used to track him.
According to police sources, Gade returned to a relative’s house in Gunat around Thursday midnight to drink water. He reportedly expressed regret for his actions and stated his intention to surrender before leaving the premises. Soon after, Pune Police successfully apprehended him with the help of villagers and brought him to Pune.
Despite various challenges during the search, police officials ensured the accused was brought into custody. He is scheduled to undergo a medical examination before being produced before the Pune District Sessions Court in the afternoon today, police officials confirmed.
The case has intensified discussions around women’s safety in public transport, with protests continuing at the Swargate ST bus stand and calls for stricter security measures.
